[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

Ideally, common areas would be free from any type of potentially offensive displays, including Confederate Flags and crosses.

Good.

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

First, what is the base meaning of the symbol? For the Confederate Flag, it is secessionism, treason, slavery, etc. For Christian/other religious symbols, the base meanings are intended to be morally positive or perhaps neutral.

Intended. I don't think the base meanings of Christian symbols are only positive and neutral when you look at the origins.

But, it is convenient to focus on "intended" to rationalize support for spirituality and beliefs. Removing the spirituality and belief from the equation and only discussing religion as a social institution, humans cannot create something that is neutral.

Theology and the Bible as literature (or any religious doctrine as literature) can highlight some interesting things about history and human dynamics. Therefore, arguably, humans cannot create something that is completely positive with absolutely no negative components or implications. When you look at the history of religion, Christianity specifically, there were things that had to happen to make Christianity possible. Christians, in particular, discuss this history with pride because it is seen as Jesus/God's work. If you remove the spirituality and belief system from the origins of Christianity, the origins can be seen a lot different.

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

On the other hand Christian symbols may take on a negative connotation in certain contexts, but there has always been a conflicting positive connotation in other contexts.

Is there truly a conflicting positive connotation or only conflicting for the Christians who want to stand by Christianity? What makes this so different than what the supporters of the Confederacy and Confederate symbols say about the positive connotations in their contexts?

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

However, the same cross around the neck of a volunteer doctor carries a very different symbolism.

It only carries very different symbolism for those who only identify the cross and Christianity as positive. For those who do not, seeing that cross is like a flashback to the missionaries who were "here to help" but did much more than "help."

And, again, what makes that so different than people who display the Confederate Flag in environments in which the Confederate Flag is not considered threatening? Based on what some people in this thread are saying, it is impossible to personally identify with the Confederate Flag regardless of intent, tone, and context.

Originally Posted by preciousjeni

Reasonable, empathetic human beings will recognize the difference and use symbolism appropriately in various contexts.

No, Christians will keep our religious privilege as the largest religion in the world and not be careful about where we display our symbols around the world.

Unless there are laws or social control mechanisms that restrict displays around the world. Such restrictions are not the same thing as being reasonable and empathetic by choice.